tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70010567292989343702024-03-12T23:01:18.647-04:00Wardrobe ReduxAdventures in Clothing Alteration, Personalization and EmbellishmentMistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.comBlogger19125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001056729298934370.post-8364907402896217712012-01-30T22:27:00.002-05:002012-01-30T22:27:38.456-05:00Here's Inspiration for YouA friend introduced me to this blog today: <a href="http://www.newdressaday.com/">New Dress a Day</a>
Wow.
After looking through the before and after gallery for at least one hour, I have these comments to make.
1) A great body and self-confidence can make almost anything look great.
2) Accessories make a huge difference. A great pair of boots or a cute belt can make something really work.
3) If a garment doesn't work, do not be afraid to repurpose it. Who would think to try wearing bloomer-like pants as a shrug??!! If a dress doesn't work try it as a blouse or a jacket.
4) Does this lady every wear anything twice??
5) I'm blown away by the blog author's dedication. What a marvelous collection of projects she has put together as a reference and an inspiration.
Check this blog out when you have lots of free time to enjoy it!Mistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001056729298934370.post-84913680983831760362011-06-05T17:51:00.001-04:002011-06-05T17:54:16.912-04:00How to "Selvedge" a SkirtI just took up the waist on this brown skirt this week. Now that it fits well, I focused on the appearance. It's nice, but a bit boring. I wanted something summery and fun to wear on my two upcoming beach trips. Inspired by <a href="http://wardroberedux.blogspot.com/2011/06/book-review-49-sensational-skirts.html">49 Sensational Skirts</a>, I decided to spice up my new skirt. <br />
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I considered lots of options, especially fusible applique, and fabric painting. But I wasn't in the mood to paint, and I thought fusible applique could too easily end up looking like a <a href="http://www.google.com/products/catalog?q=poodle+skirt&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&oe=UTF-8&rlz=1I7RNTM_en&um=1&ie=UTF-8&tbm=shop&cid=17639250970474164458&sa=X&ei=-vPrTcCvLYjY0QHTlaXGAQ&ved=0CHEQ8gIwBA#">poodle skirt</a>. Cute but really not MY style. Plus I wanted something I could finish fast, before my kids got home from the baseball game.<br />
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So I glanced around my sewing room looking for some other inspiration. I have been collecting <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Selvage">selvedges</a> for months, hoping to make them into a sewing machine cover, or possibly even one of these <a href="http://selvageblog.blogspot.com/2008/12/how-to-make-red-zinger.html">amazing quilts.</a> I decided to sacrifice a few for my skirt. I tried pinning on a few just to make sure I liked the look of it, and to figure out which direction I wanted the selvedges to be turned.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-87z0ol7TQ2s/Tev1-CVZkvI/AAAAAAAAAig/PJzl2PQpB64/s1600/P1010009_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-87z0ol7TQ2s/Tev1-CVZkvI/AAAAAAAAAig/PJzl2PQpB64/s320/P1010009_01.JPG" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div>I liked the way this looked so I pressed a bunch of selvedges flat, choosing the longest ones I had and ones with a neutral color scheme. <br />
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I started at a side seam, stitching the selvedges down only along the white edge (with white thread). I didn't even really pin it down, so some of my lines got a bit wavy. I like that hand-made look, but if you are not comfortable with "winging" it, of course you could measure and pin. I spaced the selvedges closely at the bottom, and spread them out the further up the skirt I went.<br />
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</div>As you can see, when I ran out of long selvedges, I didn't worry too much about matching up colors or patterns. <br />
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</div>Here is the finished product. I love it! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6hSTrNUrNcs/Tev5ortkSXI/AAAAAAAAAis/gTfB_QUJZNA/s1600/P1010021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6hSTrNUrNcs/Tev5ortkSXI/AAAAAAAAAis/gTfB_QUJZNA/s320/P1010021.JPG" t8="true" width="240" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I'm very curious to see what it looks like after washing, since the bottom edges are raw and not sewn down. I'm thinking I will launder it in a garment bag and hang it to dry. I hope it's not too much of a pain to press.</div>Mistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001056729298934370.post-36939165492717029442011-06-05T17:19:00.000-04:002011-06-05T17:19:38.057-04:00Book Review: 49 Sensational SkirtsI bought <a href="http://www.amazon.com/49-Sensational-Skirts-Alison-Willoughby/dp/159668061X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1307308447&sr=8-1">this book</a> about a year ago, and honestly this is the second time I have pulled it off the shelf. It's one of those that I probably should have just checked out the public library. I like the ideas presented by Alison Willoughby as a jumping off point for my own embellishment ideas. Her skirts are too over-the-top for my taste. But her presentation of different techniques is a wonderful tool. She discusses adding ruffles, screenprinting, buttons and brooches, foil, fusible applique, and many other interesting details to personalize your wardrobe. I love that she encourages her readers to reclaim and deconstruct clothing from their own wardrobes, or from the thrift store.Mistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001056729298934370.post-19464740591182305672011-06-05T17:12:00.000-04:002011-06-05T17:12:07.620-04:00Taking in a Blouse with PintucksI was given quite a few nice blouses that fit me in the shoulders and sleeves but are much too big through the torso and bust. I noticed two of these blouses are already constructed with pintucks along the torso. These are very small pleats spaced evenly apart that help shape the torso of the blouse.<br />
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I started this process by pressing the blouses and trying them on to get a good idea of how much I needed to take in. I took a few minutes to study the construction. One blouse had tucks along each side of the front and the back; the other had tucks on the front and a smocked panel in the back.<br />
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I looked closely at how the tucks were formed and measured the spacing between them. I made sure I was measuring between the seams that form the tucks, not the topstitching details.<br />
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On the first blouse, I decided to add news tucks to the back of the garment first. I thought it would be less noticeable if I messed it up. I used my ruler and chalk pencil to mark where I wanted the new tucks to go. I folded the tuck along the line I marked, and folding the extra fabric to the inside of the garment, I pinned it in place along the length of the tuck. I put matching thread in the top and bottom of my machine and I sewed along the new seam line using 1/4 inch seam allowance. I started sewing at the bottom hem of the blouse and tapered the top of the tuck to a point (which followed the pattern set by existing tucks). I pressed each tuck to the side, and topstitched it down, again following the pattern set by existing tucks.<br />
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After finishing the two back tucks, I took a minute to try the blouse on again. It was still quite roomy so I repeated the process on the front, adding one new tuck to each side.<br />
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The blouse with smocking on the back only required one tuck on each side of the front of the blouse to sufficiently take it in.<br />
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There you have it! Now I have two blouses that fit ME much better!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1_MZqK-MjnM/TevxD4rx_-I/AAAAAAAAAic/8MyeUznLdww/s1600/P1010003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1_MZqK-MjnM/TevxD4rx_-I/AAAAAAAAAic/8MyeUznLdww/s320/P1010003.JPG" t8="true" width="240" /></a></div>Mistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001056729298934370.post-10977431618773860052011-06-05T17:08:00.000-04:002011-06-05T17:08:09.925-04:00Taking In the Waist of a Simple SkirtI bought a very simple, unlined skirt at a yard sale recently. It was two sizes too big but I figured it would be a great practice alteration project. I found <a href="http://sewfordough.wordpress.com/2009/11/05/taking-in-the-waist-and-center-back-on-denim-pants-and-skirts/">this tutorial</a> which was so helpful. <br />
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My skirt was a very simple fix. It is a simple A-line shape with a side zipper so I did not have to deal with the zipper at all. I made sure my sewing machine was loaded on top and bottom with matching thread.<br />
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I put the skirt on first, and pinned the waist where it fit me comfortably. I needed to take in four inches at the waist. I detached the waistband at the back seam for a width of about 8 inches. I severed it along the back seam line and pinned it out of the way. I then opened the back seam of the skirt about 10 inches. I pressed the seams flat and removed all those little threads left from seam ripping. A lint roller is helpful with that job. <br />
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At the top of the back seam, I measured two inches on each side of the seam and made a mark. I put the skirt panels right sides together and pinned them. I drew a line with a chalk pencil from the top mark, and tapered the line into the existing seam. I sewed along this new seam line, and tried the skirt on to make sure there were no unsightly bumps.<br />
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The last step was to take in the waistband strip. I pressed the waistband strips flat. I measured two inches on each side of the cut on the waistband, put right sides together and sewed along my marks. I trimmed off the extra fabric, and pressed the new seam open. I sandwiched the waistband strip back around the body of the skirt , lining up the waitband seam with the back seam of the skirt, and stitched it back on, sewing thru the back and front with one seam.<br />
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I have to admit that I would usually have just thrown in a couple of messy pleats (or even safety pins, lol), and covered it up with a long blouse. I am so glad I took the time to do this simple alteration on this skirt. I looks very professional, and it only took about half an hour. The waistband seam is nice looking enough that I can wear it with a shirt tucked in.Mistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001056729298934370.post-79279094589046373412011-05-21T06:37:00.001-04:002011-05-21T06:44:21.088-04:00Harlequin Tee ShirtsI picked up two tee shirts at a yard sale recently. They were great quality, but waaaaay too large for me. The shirts were exactly the same brand and size, but one was white and one was black. I decided to experiment by combining them into two new creations.<br />
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I started but slicing them down the vertical center line with a ruler and rotary cutter. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VI606GeSCN4/TdeTcRNAfbI/AAAAAAAAAh4/bYGu6txXDM8/s1600/P1010001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VI606GeSCN4/TdeTcRNAfbI/AAAAAAAAAh4/bYGu6txXDM8/s320/P1010001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>For the simpler of the two projects, I simply placed WRONG sides of the raw edges together and sewed them with about an inch seam allowance. The large seam allowance made the finished shirt a smaller size. Because I was sewing two different colors together, I had white thread in the bobbin, and black thread on the top of the machine. I sewed the back and the front of the shirt the same way. Sewing wrong sides together will leave a raw edge exposed. If you don't like the exposed raw edge, you can sew these together right side to right side and the seam will be on the inside. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oaAnBGWhfeA/TdeTTiPE6QI/AAAAAAAAAh0/WGRsiX6twSk/s1600/P1010003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oaAnBGWhfeA/TdeTTiPE6QI/AAAAAAAAAh0/WGRsiX6twSk/s320/P1010003.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>For a second, more complicated variation, I measured six inches in from the cut edge of the front of the t-shirt and marked a line 6 inches down the length of the shirt. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jjCzrbJjXMw/TdeUArj-bVI/AAAAAAAAAh8/mcVvgSv1UvY/s1600/P1010004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jjCzrbJjXMw/TdeUArj-bVI/AAAAAAAAAh8/mcVvgSv1UvY/s320/P1010004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I then cut strips about 2 inches wide to the marked line.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8sl860z0Vdw/TdeUG2nKDmI/AAAAAAAAAiA/j8LJ28v0ZGU/s1600/P1010005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" j8="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8sl860z0Vdw/TdeUG2nKDmI/AAAAAAAAAiA/j8LJ28v0ZGU/s320/P1010005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>After repeating with the black side, I stitched the backs of the shirts together. Then I wove the strips on the front together, twisting each strip before pinning it down. I ran a single line of stitching down the center of each strip. Here is a photo of the inside to show the stitching pattern:<br />
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You can see that when I tried it on, twisting the strips left some gaps, and the two topmost neckline strips didn't want to play nice.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k0IeAYzcP2M/TdeUy9-Qs0I/AAAAAAAAAiE/1gMHJ-8-hHQ/s1600/P1010007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k0IeAYzcP2M/TdeUy9-Qs0I/AAAAAAAAAiE/1gMHJ-8-hHQ/s320/P1010007.JPG" width="239" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">So I carefully ran a line of stitching down the center of the woven section, making sure that the strips overlapped each other to close the gaps. I carefully cut along the neckline with scissors to reshape it.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-78P4E746UGc/TdeVqYivtxI/AAAAAAAAAiM/zH0bVQVnT_k/s1600/P1010009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-78P4E746UGc/TdeVqYivtxI/AAAAAAAAAiM/zH0bVQVnT_k/s320/P1010009.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Ta da! Two new funky t-shirts that fit!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>Mistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001056729298934370.post-26017627731285806022011-04-19T19:44:00.000-04:002011-04-19T19:44:43.617-04:00New AcquisitionsA friend from my quilting guild recently gave me a TON of sewing patterns. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E08STWGJro8/Ta4dXdY0LrI/AAAAAAAAAgY/faU551y1GcU/s1600/P1010010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E08STWGJro8/Ta4dXdY0LrI/AAAAAAAAAgY/faU551y1GcU/s320/P1010010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Another friend gave me a basket full of tailoring tools that she does not use anymore.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PTXwD2V1y2Q/Ta4eLWKwdgI/AAAAAAAAAgc/3kn6Gcsl8q0/s1600/P1010012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PTXwD2V1y2Q/Ta4eLWKwdgI/AAAAAAAAAgc/3kn6Gcsl8q0/s320/P1010012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Tailoring hams, ironing forms, and clappers, oh my! <div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>Mistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001056729298934370.post-34506021799553995552011-02-14T14:24:00.000-05:002011-02-14T14:24:26.491-05:00Experimenting with BleachI wanted to spice up a plain black 3/4 length sleeved shirt that someone gave me. I liked the fit of it and it was in pretty good shape except for a little bleach spot at the hem on the front. That gave me the idea of a design using "discharging", or bleaching. I bought a Clorox bleach pen. I like this tool, it has two ends, one for finer lines and one for thicker lines. The gel is also thick like fabric paint, not a liquid bleach. It is perfect for drawing.<br />
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I chose a design first. I used a rose of sharon quilt block design from one my books. I prepped the shirt by removing cat hair and lint, and placing a large piece of cardboard inside the shirt to protect the back of it from getting bleached. I traced a square ruler on point to mark out a space, using a white chalk pencil, which will wash out easily. <br />
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I freehanded the design with the bleach pen. I have a lot of experience doing this sort of thing. I used to make ceramic ornaments and I decorated them with liquid slip (clay), and I have made a million cookies decorated with royal icing and a piping bag. If you are not confident with this skill, just use the chalk pencil to draw before bleaching, or trace the design on a lightbox. You could also perforate the lines of a drawing on paper and use loose chalk or baby powder to pounce the design onto the shirt.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wGNjddNUVQY/TVl-d7fzUJI/AAAAAAAAAeE/lKq40L9AJhg/s1600/P1010030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wGNjddNUVQY/TVl-d7fzUJI/AAAAAAAAAeE/lKq40L9AJhg/s320/P1010030.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Despite being fairly confident freehanding the design, I would do a lot of things differently next time. First, I would buy two bleach pens. I went through almost a whole one on this design. I would hate to run out of bleach mid-project. I suggest shaking the bleach down into the tip of the pen and trying it out on a paper towel to get out any bubbles. Work as quickly as you can so the bleach doesn't spread too much, and the application over the whole design looks consistent. <br />
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Let the bleach sit on the shirt a few minutes while you prep your washing machine. Start a medium load with cold water. I rinsed the majority of the bleach off in the sink. Be careful moving the shirt from the workspace to the sink. If you wrinkle it up the bleach will get smudged. Next time I will used a piece of plastic inside the shirt instead of cardboard so I could keep it in the shirt durning the initial rinse.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MdlJGjFz22Y/TVl-oElWYpI/AAAAAAAAAeI/kKk6oBBd1g0/s1600/P1010032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MdlJGjFz22Y/TVl-oElWYpI/AAAAAAAAAeI/kKk6oBBd1g0/s320/P1010032.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I threw the shirt in the filled washing machine, and machine dried it. I like the result, despite the messiness. This is far from an exact science. I plan to work more into the design with thread or paint or both. Stay tuned for the next phase!Mistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001056729298934370.post-25421510332990456652011-01-31T11:37:00.000-05:002011-01-31T11:37:30.168-05:00Belle ArmoireAt a recent trip to Joann's I picked up a copy of <a href="http://www.bellearmoire.com/">Belle Armoire</a>. I don't do jewelry making so I wasn't too interested in the articles dealing with how to make the jewelry, although I loved looking at the beautiful photos. But I loved reading the article about <a href="http://alabamachanin.com/">Alabama Chanin's amazing clothing line</a>. There was a wide variety of high quality work by various fiber artists.<br />
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I was bummed to see that an article discussing scarf design did not include the knitting pattern for the author's beautiful example. I had to go to her etsy shop and buy the pattern for $7. <br />
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But I was excited to see they are always looking for submissions and host challenges all the time. The next deadline for submissions is only two weeks away. If I work frantically, can I get something in on time?Mistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001056729298934370.post-37960307978064351402011-01-25T09:00:00.000-05:002011-01-25T09:00:25.557-05:00New to Me Tools<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TT7T3slSJ-I/AAAAAAAAAd0/6u_0rREkCqc/s1600/sewing-tool2_lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" s5="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TT7T3slSJ-I/AAAAAAAAAd0/6u_0rREkCqc/s320/sewing-tool2_lg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<strong>Point presser/clapper makes ironing easier</strong>No, it's not a doorstop! Here's an invaluable piece of equipment that sells for around $20. It's a classic, hardwood pressing tool that's really two tools in one. The top, narrow-surfaced, point presser side works like a tiny ironing board for pressing hard-to-reach seams and enclosed corners, like those on collars, lapels, and cuffs. <br />
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A point presser is invaluable for pressing hard-to-reach seams. Slip the seam, wrong side up, over the point and press open.<br />
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The bottom, clapper side is used to apply pressure to set permanent creases, form crisp edges, and flatten bulky seams. To use it, first apply steam to the area with your iron, then press with the clapper, leaning on it and applying as much pressure as possible. Hold this position until both the fabric and wood (which presses the steam into the area without adding heat) have cooled.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TT7UR_9FpUI/AAAAAAAAAd4/y7vocE56yyE/s1600/sewing-tool4_lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" s5="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TT7UR_9FpUI/AAAAAAAAAd4/y7vocE56yyE/s320/sewing-tool4_lg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><strong>Buttonhole gauge simplifies positioning buttonholes</strong>This exotic device, which costs around $15, looks complex but actually simplifies positioning and measuring buttonholes, pleats, tucks, or anything else needing to be evenly spaced. It's a great time-saver, because it eliminates the need for calculating and carefully measuring intervals. It's easy to use--simply mark the position of the top buttonhole or first pleat, for example, and stretch the gauge to fit. I think I can use this tool for marking smocking lines, too. I really need this tool!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TT7WUCfddjI/AAAAAAAAAd8/1v0O_aI_Ipg/s1600/sewing+pressing+ham.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" s5="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TT7WUCfddjI/AAAAAAAAAd8/1v0O_aI_Ipg/s1600/sewing+pressing+ham.jpg" /></a></div>A firmly packed, "ham"-shaped cushion used to press curved seams. The contoured shape helps to mold and shape darts, collars and seams.Mistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001056729298934370.post-77045024447952657092010-12-17T13:43:00.001-05:002010-12-17T13:48:14.928-05:00Jackets I've MadeI am on a quest for the perfect jacket pattern to fit my body. I own seventeen patterns, only 3 of which I've actually made.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TQuuq6tgAJI/AAAAAAAAAdU/DooXaViSbtQ/s1600/P1010091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" n4="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TQuuq6tgAJI/AAAAAAAAAdU/DooXaViSbtQ/s320/P1010091.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TQuutoenGQI/AAAAAAAAAdY/1NPUgga5Jhw/s1600/P1010092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" n4="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TQuutoenGQI/AAAAAAAAAdY/1NPUgga5Jhw/s320/P1010092.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This was my first attempt at a sweatshirt jacket, from this <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Start-Sweatshirt-Sew-Stylish-Jacket/dp/1564778673">book</a>. These jackets, made by disassembling a store-bought sweatshirt, quilting the pieces and reassembling it, are everywhere in the quilting world. Most of them are pretty frumpy, but I thought the patterns in this book were cuter and more modern. Overall the process was pretty simple and straightforward. Unfortunately, I didn't do a muslin run through, and I didn't know enough to alter the pattern to fit my body so I ended up with a jacket that was really cute, but way too narrow to fit my linebacker shoulders. I lengthened the sleeves, but did it at the end of the sleeve instead of higher up the sleeve, so they were also too snug in the forearms. Fortunately it fits my sister, who is its proud owner. I think if I do this again, it will be a very different process.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TQuu675G8lI/AAAAAAAAAdg/AMP23r1cggY/s1600/P1010026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" n4="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TQuu675G8lI/AAAAAAAAAdg/AMP23r1cggY/s320/P1010026.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
This is an unlined jacket I made from this <a href="http://www.sewthankful.com/CNTSeamsStunningJacketPattern.html">pattern</a>. The fabrics are from the floragraphix collections, leftover from a quilt I made for my sister and brother-in-law. I wear this occasionally. It's really big on me. I definitely need to do some refining to the fit. It's made to be oversized but it's really huge. Maybe I just need to make a size down (could it be that easy?).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TQuvG-8LtwI/AAAAAAAAAdk/gxILcfbvX-c/s1600/P1010023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" n4="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TQuvG-8LtwI/AAAAAAAAAdk/gxILcfbvX-c/s320/P1010023.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TQuvJKH3Q5I/AAAAAAAAAdo/F0VHBAL9yzQ/s1600/P1010024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" n4="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TQuvJKH3Q5I/AAAAAAAAAdo/F0VHBAL9yzQ/s320/P1010024.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
This is a jacket I made. I used this basic kimono vest <a href="http://www.stephaniekimura.com/patterngallery.html">pattern</a> but I added sleeves. I used an organdy that was already embellished with ribbon for the body (no I did not sew all that down myself, lol). I really like the pleated styles that I'm seeing everywhere right now, so I tried my hand at making pleats along the facing. I used all kinds of scraps in black and white and I love the way it turned out. I am going to add a binding along the sleeve and hem edges to finish it up, in time to be in the quilt show in March.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TQuvUWHte0I/AAAAAAAAAds/Xe8Rsl3--PI/s1600/P1010027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" n4="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TQuvUWHte0I/AAAAAAAAAds/Xe8Rsl3--PI/s320/P1010027.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>My latest endeavor is making this <a href="http://www.thequiltedcloset.com/catalog/catalog.php?item=55&catid=1&ret=catalog.php%3Fcategory%3D1">pattern</a>. A member of my guild made this and I fell in love with it. It is about half way complete, and has been for months, patiently waiting in a plastic bag for me to get my act together. Can I finish it in time to wear it in the spring?Mistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001056729298934370.post-70511573234599619332010-11-08T12:03:00.000-05:002010-11-08T12:03:25.014-05:00ScarvesI love scarves. I love that scarves are totally in fashion right now. I've always been a bit intimidated by wearing them. I grew up in Louisiana where it was rarely cold enough to wear winter clothing. The climate I live in now (near Washington DC) is perfect for a cozy scarf, so I've been looking for ideas for making them and wearing them.<br />
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Scarves are not just utilitarian. I think scarves can really add to an outfit. It's a great way to add an accent color or pattern or texture to wardrobe basics.<br />
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Scarves can also flatter! They can create that deep V-neckline that is so flattering, or they can cover a not-so-young neckline. They can substitute for jewelry and draw attention up to your face.<br />
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I started by doing an inventory of what I already own. I have a lot of silk and silk-like scarves. They're a nice, light accent to an outfit, but not particularly warm. I think of wearing them more in the springtime, especially since I have mostly spring colors in my collection.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TNgsB7e8eYI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/O5h0uSQuRCo/s1600/P1010011_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TNgsB7e8eYI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/O5h0uSQuRCo/s320/P1010011_01.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>I have lots of knitted and crocheted scarves, too. They are warm, but I find most of them itchy and too bulky for all but the coldest weather.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TNgsKMSrofI/AAAAAAAAAcU/2xrPND2PDnc/s1600/P1010013_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TNgsKMSrofI/AAAAAAAAAcU/2xrPND2PDnc/s320/P1010013_01.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>When I saw a tutorial for a flannel scarf, I thought it was a brilliant idea! Flannel pajamas are about the most comfortable thing in the universe, and the idea of something that feels like that wrapped around my neck on a cool windy day sounds like heaven. They are so simple to sew, they work up much faster than a knitted or crocheted scarf, plus the flannel is generally cheaper to buy than nice quality yarn.<br />
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Of course, I ran straight to Joann's and bought some flannel. There are some really neat prints available these days, not just solids, or juvenile prints for a nursery. Here are the two scarves I made.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TNgsncBn-TI/AAAAAAAAAcY/Q5IWCVqw5-U/s1600/P1010005_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TNgsncBn-TI/AAAAAAAAAcY/Q5IWCVqw5-U/s320/P1010005_01.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I'm obsessed with ruffles and pleats right now, so I added ruffles to both of mine. I made the blue floral one to go with jeans, denim jackets, and the loads of red and burgundy I have in my closet.<br />
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I made the silver and gold one to coordinate with the new pair of metallic flats I just bought. Metallic shoes are very "out there" for me, but I'm told that metallics are neutrals.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TNgtLzXs-3I/AAAAAAAAAcc/nlBEm-iZB2E/s1600/P1010009_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TNgtLzXs-3I/AAAAAAAAAcc/nlBEm-iZB2E/s320/P1010009_01.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Here are some tutorials for this super-simple sewing project. <br />
Make it and Love it's <a href="http://www.makeit-loveit.com/2010/01/gathered-flannel-scarf.html">Gathered Flannel Scarf</a><br />
luvinthemommyhood's <a href="http://www.luvinthemommyhood.com/2010/10/infinity-beyond-scarf-tutorial.html">Infinity and Beyond Scarf</a><br />
Modern Organic Fabric's <a href="http://www.modernorganicfabrics.com/journal/2009/12/4/easy-ruffle-trim-scarf-tutorial.html">Easy Ruffle Trim Scarf</a><br />
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With the holidays coming up, these make great gifts that work up very quickly and easily.Mistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001056729298934370.post-82821695310752317942010-10-26T19:57:00.000-04:002010-10-26T19:57:54.125-04:00Review: Threads Fitting DVD SeriesMy local library has this set of four videos so I decided to check them out. I'm such a visual learner that I need to see really great photos or illustrations of a process, or even better a live demonstration!<br />
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I found watching these videos extremely helpful. The presenters are a bit wooden but very knowledgeable. I really appreciated seeing how the process of how to cut a paper pattern. How to pin a muslin mock-up and how to transfer those changes to the paper pattern was also very helpful. Also, just seeing examples of poor fit on a live model helped me to discern what problems I have with fit.<br />
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So I highly recommend this set of videos. They will be going on my amazon wish list for Christmas for sure.Mistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001056729298934370.post-6230164606541354492010-10-19T22:38:00.000-04:002010-10-19T22:38:28.531-04:00Pretty in PinkOh Molly Ringwald, How I wanted to be you when I grew up. <br />
I can't believe I've seen Sixteen Candles approximately 11, 567 times, but I survived to the ripe old age of 36 without seeing Pretty in Pink.<br />
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</div>So last weekend, it came on television and I watched it. <br />
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</div>There were so many things I enjoyed about this movie. Annie Potts dressed as a punk rocker....Duckie's remarkable fashion choices... Andrew McCarthy's blue eyes.<br />
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It seemed so apropos, since I'm doing this redux blog. Molly's character was the original wardrobe reduxer! I was hanging on the edge of my seat to see what she's do to combine those two pink gowns, one from her dad, and one from her friend, into a new fabulous prom dress.<br />
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I was sorely disappointed when this walked out. Not what I would have done, even in 1985. But what a fun movie!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TL5UY_YoYqI/AAAAAAAAAcM/KZuRQaFwuk0/s1600/pretty-pink-john-hughes-molly-ringwald.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TL5UY_YoYqI/AAAAAAAAAcM/KZuRQaFwuk0/s320/pretty-pink-john-hughes-molly-ringwald.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Mistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001056729298934370.post-52087068073220186412010-10-19T22:27:00.000-04:002010-10-19T22:27:12.203-04:00Jeans CompletedSo I decided I really didn't want to draw attention to the hem of the pants, so I went a different direction. I decided to use a decorative stitch on my machine to cover the faded mark from the previous hem.<br />
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I started with a sample on an old piece of muslin. Unless I'm just playing around, I always make a little sample. It is important to test your thread tension, stitch length, etc.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TL5S1IfnY_I/AAAAAAAAAcI/JWJ10TybAJY/s1600/P1010010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TL5S1IfnY_I/AAAAAAAAAcI/JWJ10TybAJY/s320/P1010010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I also changed the needle on my machine. I just learned about Universal needles and how they were made to be used on both cotton fabrics and knits. So I put in a Universal needle, in a size smaller than I usually use.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TL5Qi40pZ1I/AAAAAAAAAbw/aCHCDHcNdjA/s1600/P1010003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TL5Qi40pZ1I/AAAAAAAAAbw/aCHCDHcNdjA/s320/P1010003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I used a dark navy blue thread. I thought I might need a stabilizer, but these jeans are quite sturdy and elastic. I tried the decorative stitch on the very bottom of the jeans first, which ended up being folded up into the final hem.<br />
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Here is a comparison between the jeans before the stitch (L) and after (R).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TL5QrWPItkI/AAAAAAAAAb0/IJuVTTf4bE8/s1600/P1010007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TL5QrWPItkI/AAAAAAAAAb0/IJuVTTf4bE8/s320/P1010007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The trickiest part of this process was not catching the underside of the pants while sewing. <br />
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For the final hem, I folded the raw edge under 1/4", then folded it in again 1/4" and pressed it with a hot iron. Instead of using my sewing machine's blind hem stitch, I just sewed a straight stitch with the wrong side of jeans turned out so I could go along the edge of the turned under seam.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TL5QzKzOdBI/AAAAAAAAAb4/FL08-5-g_Js/s1600/P1010008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TL5QzKzOdBI/AAAAAAAAAb4/FL08-5-g_Js/s320/P1010008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
While I was reduxing these jeans, I wanted to fix one more issue. I bought them with this strange button closure on the back, between the back belt loops. I guess you could use it to adjust the waist, but I didn't need it. It just made a wierd lump on my back. So I took it off!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TL5Q6s-4N8I/AAAAAAAAAb8/qmn15TpYM1E/s1600/P1010007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TL5Q6s-4N8I/AAAAAAAAAb8/qmn15TpYM1E/s320/P1010007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The trusty seam ripper to the rescue again!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TL5RA-PKjFI/AAAAAAAAAcA/yQOVvNSsZcQ/s1600/P1010008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TL5RA-PKjFI/AAAAAAAAAcA/yQOVvNSsZcQ/s320/P1010008.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TL5RLIk6loI/AAAAAAAAAcE/_wAmUF7GPmw/s1600/P1010013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TL5RLIk6loI/AAAAAAAAAcE/_wAmUF7GPmw/s320/P1010013.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>Here's the finished product! You can see in the background that my hubby was watching The Incredible Hulk, when I interrupted him to take photos!Mistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001056729298934370.post-72549469801784418442010-10-05T13:54:00.000-04:002010-10-05T13:54:04.587-04:00Hem: Auditioning Possibilities<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I washed the jeans with the hopes that the old hemlines would relax a bit. I was disappointed to see that they did not relax at all. So I ironed them on high heat with steam and some starch alternative. </div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtgJYXIXHI/AAAAAAAAAas/9xg3-lZmOL4/s1600/P1010030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtgJYXIXHI/AAAAAAAAAas/9xg3-lZmOL4/s320/P1010030.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtgIgq3xyI/AAAAAAAAAao/SIISIRBJAdU/s1600/P1010031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtgIgq3xyI/AAAAAAAAAao/SIISIRBJAdU/s320/P1010031.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>I love this product! It's so much less sticky than spray starch and it smells nice.<br />
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I went through my bin of trims. I didn't find a lot of possibilities (Christmas ribbon and rick rack wasn't doing it for me) but I did find a few.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtg1tJmnMI/AAAAAAAAAaw/oo_8eig7bRs/s1600/P1010033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtg1tJmnMI/AAAAAAAAAaw/oo_8eig7bRs/s320/P1010033.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>For some reason, this reads "tennis" to me. Perhaps with something else, as an edging? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtha-l084I/AAAAAAAAAa8/4JpIclyTwis/s1600/P1010034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtha-l084I/AAAAAAAAAa8/4JpIclyTwis/s320/P1010034.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>This was a belt from something....It reads a bit too "sailor suit" for my taste. Shirley Temple, I am not.<br />
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So I decided to audition a few fabrics from my quilting stash.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtiGcNKzzI/AAAAAAAAAbU/MY7dzYv8MgU/s1600/P1010043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtiGcNKzzI/AAAAAAAAAbU/MY7dzYv8MgU/s320/P1010043.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Boring....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtiHIHDQSI/AAAAAAAAAbY/KnB2Rd69gXA/s1600/P1010044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtiHIHDQSI/AAAAAAAAAbY/KnB2Rd69gXA/s320/P1010044.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> I think the scale is too big on this one.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtiC7dKYhI/AAAAAAAAAbA/KKnXC-2omO0/s1600/P1010038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; height: 370px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; width: 241px;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtiC7dKYhI/AAAAAAAAAbA/KKnXC-2omO0/s320/P1010038.JPG" width="240" /></a>These two photos are the same fabric, just folded differently for different effects.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtiEW9r7LI/AAAAAAAAAbI/PjIFSl7UKOU/s1600/P1010040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtiEW9r7LI/AAAAAAAAAbI/PjIFSl7UKOU/s320/P1010040.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Maybe an autumn feeling?</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtka1fOvrI/AAAAAAAAAbc/PcKAsiE0Cio/s1600/P1010046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtka1fOvrI/AAAAAAAAAbc/PcKAsiE0Cio/s320/P1010046.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Nah, but this print did make me think of a technique. It's a quilting technique but it would be really interesting. French braids!</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtk05SUyiI/AAAAAAAAAbk/vhAw91wITOU/s1600/P1010047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKtk05SUyiI/AAAAAAAAAbk/vhAw91wITOU/s320/P1010047.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">I could use lots of interesting fabrics together and not be limited to just one. I hate having to choose just one of anything!</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">I shall have to choose carefully though. I could see how this look could quickly become too "hippy chick." Not that there's anything wrong with hippy chicks, I just don't care to dress like one.</div>Mistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001056729298934370.post-17930917561628169682010-10-04T22:42:00.000-04:002010-10-04T22:42:58.023-04:00My First Project: Altering a HemIt's the curse of the tall woman: I had a pair of wide leg jeans in my closet that I never really wore because they were too short.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKqML_Sgq0I/AAAAAAAAAak/RWf1cHveaG8/s1600/P1010004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKqML_Sgq0I/AAAAAAAAAak/RWf1cHveaG8/s320/P1010004.JPG" width="320" /></a>I have a bit of experience hemming things, from sewing a few garments. So how hard can it be to rehem a pair of pants? Ok, they're not trousers. They're stretch denim jeans. But it still can't be that hard, right?</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">After a bit of examination, I can see that ripping out the hem seam will be a relatively simple process. The hardest problem is the very stretchy, thick elastic thread. I pull out my handy, dandy seam ripper. Do you own one of these? If not, you should. </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKqMKBgpeLI/AAAAAAAAAac/f0EzgPWwA3c/s1600/P1010006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKqMKBgpeLI/AAAAAAAAAac/f0EzgPWwA3c/s320/P1010006.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">All I did was run that bad boy around the whole hemline until all the stitches were loose.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKqMLHSoaJI/AAAAAAAAAag/cnnKKHCaJhw/s1600/P1010003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Fv65GzjfKJI/TKqMLHSoaJI/AAAAAAAAAag/cnnKKHCaJhw/s320/P1010003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">So here they are, with the hem let out completely. This adds about five inches of total length, more than enough to make them non-high-waters!</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">But look at that lovely line where the previous hem was turned and pressed . Hmmm, how to hide that? I will have to consider. Trim? Fabric ink or paint? Permanent marker?</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Next installment: Putting in a new hem.</div>Mistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001056729298934370.post-75777432068405268102010-10-04T22:06:00.000-04:002010-10-04T22:06:41.125-04:00Book Review: The Science of Sexy by Bradley BayouI'm starting my fashion research at the same place I start all my research: my local public library!<br />
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There isn't much "science" in this book. The subtitle is more honest: "Dress to fit your unique figure with the style system that works for every shape and size." After a short introduction which includes Mr. Bayou's "Conceal and Reveal" strategy, and his "Ten Dress Sexy Commandments," I was instructed to take my measurements and refer to a chart for my color. My measurements gave me my body shape, and the color chart referenced my height and weight. I was sent to a "fitting room" in the back of the book, taking my height, weight, and body shape into consideration.<br />
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I am a "Tall Plus Rectangle." I have a thick waist (all those post babies pounds), but at least my broad shoulders and wide hips are balanced. I am supposed to wear clothes that create the illusion of a slimmer waist, like wrap shirts and dresses, surplice tops, v-necks, and boatneck tops. I should wear empire waists, and avoid drop waists. I should wear slightly flared skirts and straight or bootleg pants. I should keep my patterns and accessories in a medium to large scale. I can show off my legs. I should wear pointy toed shoes, peep toe heels, and no squared toed shoes. I should choose princess seamed jackets, and avoid doubled breasted anything, long, straight coats, and anything that is shiny, stretchy, or clingy around my middle. I should also avoid belts. Which is good to know, since I'd been looking around for belts lately!<br />
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I didn't learn much that I didn't already know. I need to remember not to wear clingy t-shirts without a jacket, as this emphasizes that spare tire around my middle. I need to invest in some new shoes this winter, so I will try to follow Mr. Bayou's recommendations on that point.Mistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7001056729298934370.post-89885007755546453472010-09-29T13:30:00.000-04:002010-09-29T13:44:08.542-04:00Misnomer?I should probably also subtitle this blog "Adventures in Designing a Blog," because, seriously, I have no clue what I'm doing.<br /><br />So why should you come back to this blog? I'm going to be performing some experiments, perhaps even surgery, on my wardrobe.<br /><br />I am 36 years old. I am a stay-at-home, homeschooling mom. I am also an artist and I am really, <em>really</em> tired of my boring closet. I want to pin down my personal style, and create some really interesting items of clothing. I'm not a boring person, and I'm tired of dressing like one. But I am somewhat moderate in my tastes. I don't want to dress like a goth or a steampunk. I want beautiful, elegant, upscale, one of a kind, artistic designer clothes. <br /><br />But this is not What Not to Wear. I have no Visa with $5000 to blow in NYC. In fact, I have basically no budget for this project. I do have tons of fabric from my quilting and sewing stash. I have quite a few interesting trims and embellishments that I have acquired over the years. I have fabric paint and ink and stencils. I have a lot of time, skills, knowledge, and some serious motivation.<br /><br />I have also have quite a few items in my closet that are either a bit too big or a bit too small. One of my goals is to learn to alter my clothing to fit my body.Mistyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07652791032069525211noreply@blogger.com0